Marin Snapshot: An acupuncturist's perspective on ancient practice and animals

HER CREDENTIALS say it all: Carlyn Montes de Oca, L.AC., M.T.O.M., Dipl. O.M. has quite a smattering of interests. She used to be a film editor in Los Angeles 12 years ago, all the while volunteering for an animal rescue organization and graduating Summa Cum Laude in Traditional Chinese Medicine. She moved to San Anselmo five years ago and opened Modern Alchemy Acupuncture and Nutritional Counseling.

Montes De Oca is a huge activist for animal rights, and she's writing a book on how animals change the world. She also writes a monthly blog, Secrets to Longevity, and lives with her husband and "three animal friends."

Q: How did you transition from film editing to alternative medicine?

A: I loved working on movies, but the business can be a demanding taskmaster. Working 24/7 left me tired, and the craft service tables were fueling some very bad eating habits. Acupuncture always helped me feel better. After 20 years of film editing, I decided to study Chinese Medicine and after the first 10 minutes of my first class I was hooked.

Q: What do you like the most about being an acupuncturist?

A: I love the connection with my patients. It feels amazing to help someone become healthier and more hopeful. Also acupuncture can do wonders for the emotions, so people often start feeling happier and more passionate about life. It's rewarding to know that in some way I may have helped with that.

Q: Tell me about your passion for animals. How are you involved in animal rescues and activism?

A: I've loved animals my whole life. I've volunteered in rescues, adopted, leafleted, protested, written legislators and become vegan. But as PETA's Sexiest Vegetarian over 50, my activism became public. Now I'm the spokesperson for the Guardian Campaign, created by Dr. Elliot Katz, founder of San Rafael's In Defense of Animals. People who see themselves as animal guardians, instead of animal owners, are less likely to mistreat or abandon their animal companions. Transforming our attitudes toward animals by changing one word is an easy and powerful way to help them.

Q: What is your book about, and where did the inspiration come from?

A: "Dog as My Doctor, Cat as My Nurse, a New Path to Health and Longevity" shows how our relationships with the animals we share our home with can lead us toward a healthier, happier and more extraordinary life. My initial inspiration came from the dogs and cats that I've rescued, and especially the pack that I live with now. Their wisdom, humor and friendship inspires me to be a better person and to enjoy life to its fullest.